Community members from Carlyle, Arcola, Manor, and other districts gathered together with family members from as far away as Burbank, California to mark a once-in-a-century event, the 100th birthday of Christine Collier.
Collier, who in the past had been an x-ray technician at the Arcola Hospital, is now retired and living at Moose Mountain Lodge in Carlyle.
In an event that brought more than 50 people, the visiting room at MML was packed with people who came by to enjoy coffee and sandwiches with the birthday girl.
Included amongst the numerous well wishings was a presentation from Carlyle mayor Don Shirley.
In what has become a tradition for the town, Collier was presented with a framed certificate commemorating her 100th year, as well as a red rose.
Collier herself seemed tickled by all of the attention.
"It is just so nice to see everyone come out," Collier said. "I am very happy to see so many friends at one time."
As the afternoon progressed a relative of Collier's, Dr. Don McRae, convinced the star of the afternoon to say a few words.
"I guess you are all waiting on me to talk," Collier said with a chuckle. "I won't keep you waiting."
"I can say it has been wonderful to see you all," Collier said. "Just wonderful."
"I am happy to see the people down from Arcola here," Collier said. "They're such a nice bunch."
"Of course, so are the people from Carlyle."
"I guess I just want to thank you for this lovely dinner," Collier said. "It is all just so wonderful and lovely to see you all."
After Collier had completed her address, the crowd sang to her a round of 'Happy Birthday' to the grinning woman.
Christine Collier was born in the community of Wapella, SK, on Oct. 30, 1910.
Collier married her husband, Arthur Collier, in Arthur's home community of Drinkwater, and the pair moved to Carlyle in 1949.
In addition to everything else, Collier was also the first female councillor on the Carlyle town council when she was elected to a council seat in 1974.
